Custom Open-Source CNC Mill MQP
Part of the WPI undergraduate program is completing a Major Qualifying Project, or MQP. My twin brother Alex and I pitched and secured funding for our own MQP, an open source tabletop CNC machine. I chose this project because of my interest in machine design and experience machining parts for combat robots. Much of the project was focused on making the open-source machine accessible and affordable, so it can be made at a budget with minimal tools. The machine met our precision and speed goals and was capable of machining aluminum and mild steel.
Design Highlights
The cost and manufacturing requiprements make the design parameters for this machine different than a typical CNC mill.
Affordability
FMEA
The entire machine and safety components will be under $1,800.
Utilized FMEA to ensure safe operation.
The target audience for this machine is school maker spaces, hobbyists, and school robotics teams. To make it accessible to these groups who usually don't have access to CNC technology, we focused on sourcing affordable components while still designing a machine that can achieve reasonable part tolerances.
Calculated Movement
Accessiblity
The entire machine can be made with only water jet cut parts, a drillpress, and a bandsaw.
This was achieved by a new frame construction method. We utilize square tubing screwed together for rigidity and water jet plates to ensure the linear rails and ball screws are parallel. Detailed assembly instructions will make it easier than ever for anyone online to make this machine themsevles
Calculations done to ensure properly speced components
Finished Mill
The mill worked well, and I used it to machine both aluminum and UHMW parts for my combat robot, Clyde. This MQP has since been carried on by current WPI students, adding addition features such as a 4th axis and a tool changer.
